Cultural beliefs and parental support for female genital mutilation practices in Ibadan, Oyo State

Abstract

Introduction: female genital mutilation (FGM) remains a persistent cultural practice in Nigeria despite decades of advocacy against it. This study examined cultural beliefs and parental support for FGM in Ibadan City, Oyo State of Nigeria, where parental decisions and community norms significantly influence its continuation. The purpose was to assess parents’ knowledge of FGM practices, identify cultural beliefs sustaining the practice, and determine the level of parental support within the study area. Method: a descriptive survey design was adopted, targeting parents across the five local government areas of Ibadan. Using a multistage sampling technique, 400 respondents were selected, with 342 valid responses analyzed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests at a 0.05, level of significance. Results: findings revealed that although FGM still exists in Ibadan, perceptions indicate a gradual decline in its prevalence and social endorsement. Most respondents disagreed with cultural beliefs linking FGM to purity, obedience, or family honor, though traces of religious and traditional justification persist. Parental support for FGM was generally low, with stronger support found in rural than urban areas. Hypothesis testing showed that age and education significantly influenced parental support, while gender and religion did not. Conclusions: The study concludes that cultural beliefs and parental support for FGM are weakening in Ibadan, signaling a gradual cultural shift. It recommends strengthening anti-FGM laws, expanding culturally sensitive health campaigns, integrating FGM awareness into educational curricula, and focusing interventions on rural communities where support remains stronger.